TV show that teens love and terrifies parents

QUINN DWYER

Netflix’s “Sex Education,” though rated TV-MA, is a revolutionary show for having sex-friendly conversations, and it raises the question of whether ELHS is doing the same.

Critics globally are raving about the show. The Washington Post calls it one of the best shows for teens because of its relatable characters and life lessons in the world of sex. Upon release of its first season in January 2019, “Sex Education” was the most popular show on Netflix among U.S. viewers. The show follows Otis, the son of a sex therapist, and a group of friends who start underground sex therapy for their school. Bringing usually awkward conversations into public light is revolutionary. Are these same conversations being had here at ELHS?

The ELHS Freshman Wellness class, where these subjects are discussed, is something appropriate way in our courses,” said students have mixed opinions on. The course covers many different life skills, one of them being safe sex.

The subject is uncomfortable for some people, just like conversations about race and gender. Some students who were asked for their view on the subject were unwilling to talk publicly about it.

Junior Brendan Ridgeway, however, felt that as a freshman, he was not thoroughly taught.

“I don’t think my Freshman Wellness adequately served the needs of every individual. I think that it was heteronormative and I would encourage more representation for more diverse students, as it could save lives,” said Ridgeway.

Students have mixed experiences depending on the class and its environment, but there is more offered than expected in the course.

“I don’t think ‘Sex Education’ is a good show for kids to be watching to learn about sex. We cover homosexual and heterosexual intercourse mindfully and in a more health and PE teacher Ms. Thompson, who watched the first episode of “Sex Education.”

“It’s just too much,” said Ms. Thompson. Although the intention of the class is to educate about all sexual experiences, the topic of gay sex is not well covered, according to Ridgeway.

“Personally, I did most of my research outside of school to feel the safest,” said Ridgeway. “The one gay reference I remember was this movie from the 90s about a gay man who dies of AIDS because he wasn’t educated.”

But Ms. Thompson said the class offers valuable information.

“We try to encourage students to pay attention specifically to the STD information. Some students say, ‘Why do I have to be here?’ but it has the same necessity as a class like Chemistry. You might not think you will ever use chemistry in your life, but learning about it is necessary,” said Ms. Thompson.